The Stanislaus Sprout

As many readers know, University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) in Stanislaus County recently launched a Master Gardener Program.

Gardening is like the weather; both are perfect conversation starters with anyone you meet. In spring, one of the biggest gardening topics is tomatoes, since almost everyone loves home-grown tomatoes.

[Reblog from Pests in the Urban Landscape] If you were to ask an audience of more than a few people if they or anyone they know has ever seen or been bitten by a brown recluse spider in California, many hands would be raised.

Home gardeners often become concerned when their fruit trees begin dropping fruit prematurely. In some cases, fruit drop is nature's way of reducing a heavy fruit load. In other cases, premature fruit drop may be caused by pests and diseases, adverse weather conditions or poor cultural practices.

Are you fascinated by insects? Do you want to learn more about them but aren't sure how? The Stanislaus County UCCE Master Gardeners are offering a chance to help you get started.